We have some clear opinions about how to help kids stay safe and productive on the internet.
Scott:
Communicate with your child. This might mean regular family dinners, getting your own MySpace and Facebook, or talking about tough things with them. Listening is key. Honesty is essential.
Learn about how young people are using the internet. Resources here can help. Then determine and continually re-evaluate how your own child's internet use either fits these perceived trends or does not
Establish and maintain clear and simple rules for use of the internet connection you pay for.
You have access to any passwords to any accounts
You determine how much time on the computer is too much time
Respect your child's right to privacy, within limits
Seeking out pornography or any other inappropriateness is not okay and will result in loss of privilege--check histories regularly
Any browser window that is suddenly minimized when you come near is probably not a good one, but it may be simply private email. Balance your right to protect your child with their growing right to individualism and privacy
Keep the internet-connected computer in an open space. Ours is on a workdesk in a corner of our kitchen, screen facing out
Scott: